PARENTS in Wandong and Heathcote Junction are being urged to take a hard look at the impact of gifting electric bikes and scooters to their teenagers, amid rising concerns about vandalism, reckless riding, and a lack of respect for public and private spaces.
Residents have spoken out after a spate of troubling incidents involving young people tearing through local parks, damaging public assets, and endangering themselves and others.
The areas near the skate park in Wandong have reportedly suffered from repeated damage, while private properties are also being targeted.
“They’re almost running pedestrians over, and some have even been hit themselves. It’s like they’re begging to wind up dead,” one resident posted on social media.
Another hotspot is the blue pedestrian bridge, where broken glass is now a common sight, claimed to be left behind after teens discard their drinks on their ride home from the shops.
While acknowledging that teenage boredom in a small town isn’t new, long-time residents say this current behaviour crosses a line.
“I wasn’t perfect as a teenager either, but we had respect for the town, for people’s property, and for ourselves. Maybe parents should think twice before handing over what is basically an unregistered motorbike and calling it a toy,” another posted.
Calls are growing for more education and stronger parental oversight. Residents are not just asking for better behaviour from youth, but for families to instil a sense of community pride something they feel has eroded.
As complaints mount, locals hope the message is heard before someone is seriously injured—or worse.
